Testing a Reflective Spatial Heterodyne Spectrometer for Spaceflight

The RSHS in development would be applicable for remote sensing observations of a range of diffuse emissions. This image shows ash from Nevado del Huila, a 5,365-meter (17,600-foot) stratovolcano in the Colombian Andes.Image credit: Jeff Schmaltz, MODIS Rapid Response, Goddard Space Flight Center.

Researchers have reported on the development of a Reflective Spatial Heterodyne Spectrometer (RSHS) that would be applicable for narrow and broadband observations in the extreme ultraviolet (EUV). This electromagnetic radiation falls in the spectrum spanning wavelengths from 124 nm to 10 nm. The RSHS uses an interferometric technique where information is gathered by superimposing electromagnetic waves to cause interference. The technique is broadly applicable to remote sensing of diffuse emissions (for example, emissions through dust). The RSHS in development is being tested for spaceflight, and could be used on future space missions.